困
Oppression
L'Accablement
Kùn
Upper trigram
Lake
Lower trigram
Water
The Judgment
Oppression. Success. Perseverance. The great man brings fortune. No blame. When one has something to say, one is not believed.
The Image
There is no water in the lake: the image of Oppression. Thus the noble man risks his life to follow his will.
Meaning
Exhaustion, oppression, trial. Resources are depleted, yet the spirit can remain free. The moment demands endurance and inner faith.
The six lines
Line 1 (bottom)
One sits oppressed beneath a bare tree and strays into a dark valley. For three years one sees nothing.
Line 2
One is oppressed while eating and drinking. The man with the scarlet ceremonial apron arrives. It is advantageous to offer a sacrifice. Setting forth on an expedition brings misfortune. No blame.
Line 3
One is oppressed by stone and leans on thorns and thistles. One enters one's house and does not see one's wife. Misfortune.
Line 4
He comes very slowly, oppressed in a golden chariot. Humiliation, but one reaches the goal.
Line 5
One has nose and feet cut off. One is oppressed by the man with the purple ceremonial apron. Joy comes gently. It is advantageous to offer sacrifices and libations.
Line 6 (top)
One is oppressed by creeping vines. One moves with uncertainty and says: movement brings repentance. If one feels repentance and sets forth, fortune comes.